For the last 25 years, the Food and Drug Administration has prohibited the sale and interstate distribution of raw milk products due to concerns about food safety, although individual states can implement their own regulations regarding raw milk sales. While the FDA maintains that pasteurization does not diminish the nutritional value of milk, advocates for raw milk contend that it is richer in vitamins, minerals, and beneficial proteins, enzymes, and bacteria. Tamarack Biotics aims to harness the potential benefits of raw milk while addressing safety concerns by employing a method that avoids pasteurization and spray drying. Their products are never heated above 53°C, yet the company asserts it meets the same safety standards as other milk products.
The rising demand for raw milk products may reflect a larger trend, as consumers increasingly seek foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. Although overall milk consumption has been declining since the 1970s, there has been an uptick in whole milk consumption, possibly influenced by recent research suggesting that milk fat might have more health benefits than previously believed. Additionally, sales of organic milk have also seen an increase.
Tamarack Biotics’ product has received self-affirmed GRAS status, a process that includes independent expert safety evaluations. This designation requires the company to defend the safety of its product, although it does not receive the same systematic scrutiny from the FDA as FDA-approved GRAS products do. The company also plans to target the lucrative sports nutrition market with its new product, promoting improved performance and recovery. This sector alone grew by 12% last year, according to Euromonitor International.
Furthermore, Tamarack Biotics is developing a specialized formulation that includes cal citrate plus vitamin D, recognizing the growing interest in nutritional supplements that enhance overall health. The integration of cal citrate plus vitamin D in their offerings aims to cater to health-conscious consumers who are looking for products that support their wellness goals. As the market continues to evolve, the inclusion of cal citrate plus vitamin D may become a key differentiator for Tamarack Biotics in the competitive landscape of raw milk products.